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Record low water levels on Danube force nuclear output cuts in Hungary and Romania
- 5 hours ago (2026-07-31)
- David Flin
Nuclear power plants along the River Danube in Hungary and Romania have cut output and may need to shut down completely as a result of record low water levels. Researchers say the problem has become a seasonal risk as climate change makes extreme heat and droughts more frequent.
EP Shangahi 2026
The 2 GW Paks nuclear power plant in Hungary is running at half capacity and might need to be powered down. Peter Magyar, Hungary’s Prime Minister, said that the possible shutdown of the plant and an expected 20 per cent jump in electricity demand due to the heatwave could result in a critical situation in early August. He also said that the situation could be exacerbated by the loss of 400 MW due to a malfunction at the Szazhalombatta gas-fired power plant.
MVM , Hungary’s grid operator, has asked large consumers to voluntarily reduce electricity consumption between 5pm and 10pm local time. The government also asked citizens not to charge electric cars or use air conditioners during these hours.